According to the experts at Gartner, the definition of a Managed Service Provider (MSP) is:
A managed service provider (MSP) delivers network, application, system and e-management services across a network to multiple enterprises, using a “pay as you go” pricing model. A “pure play” MSP focuses on management services as its core offering. In addition, the MSP market includes offerings from other providers — including application service providers (ASPs), Web hosting companies and network service providers (NSPs) — that supplement their traditional offerings with management services. (Source)
Your IT needs may be best handled by a Managed Service Provider (MSP), which is a company that remotely manages a customer’s IT infrastructure and/or end-user systems, often on a proactive basis and under a subscription model, depending on the type and size of your organisation.
Here are some of the ways an MSP can help your business.
Only pay for the services you require.
Working with an MSP can make managing your IT budget a lot easier. You can contract for exactly the services you require because most MSPs provide subscription models and scalable pricing. If you’d prefer to have IT workers onsite for a few hours a week, you can hire a part-time MSP to work out of your office.
When your workload necessitates it, add help.
Another advantage is that MSPs make additional assistance simple, allowing you to grow and adjust your IT as your company objectives shift. Fill in for team members who are away on vacation, medical leave, or other extended absences. Alternatively, you can add team members while looking for new ones, all while supporting your organization’s IT demands.
Maintain control over your hardware and software.
Whether it’s building and configuring file servers and network switches, setting up new workstations, or maintaining software installation and site licences, MSPs can manage your hardware and software assets. Your MSP can assist you in planning for planned equipment replacement as well as software updates and upgrades.
You’re less likely to have unexpected downtime or lose money due to equipment and software failures since MSPs monitor and maintain your hardware and software.
Ascertain safety.
In terms of business continuity, MSPs can play a key role in ensuring the security of client information and other sensitive, proprietary data. For example, if you hire an MSP for offsite storage, you can rest assured that your company’s and employees’ documents will be safe in the case of a fire, natural disaster, or break-in.
MSPs can also undertake risk assessments for new IT projects, as well as maintain and upgrade anti-virus software, perform security checks and updates on hardware and software, and perform security checks and updates on hardware and software. In the event of a data or network security breach, an MSP can even collaborate with law enforcement.
Fill in the blanks with your team’s specific skills.
MSPs can also aid in the expansion of your company and marketing strategies. Because MSPs take the role of dedicated IT professionals on your payroll, the salary savings allow you to hire more, and in some situations, more innovative, business solutions.
For example, working with an MSP, who can house data and help manage and handle online payment systems, may allow you to launch a website and online store sooner. An MSP can also assist you with the development of mobile apps for smartphones and tablets.
So, what exactly is an MSP?
Managed Service Providers handle a wide range of tasks with various budgets and skill sets. You might also hire MSPs who provide on-demand services, sometimes at higher contract prices, but who can fill gaps on a contract-by-contract basis.
When you engage with a reliable partner, you’ll be able to identify and address areas of your business where you could benefit from additional assistance while still keeping control of your IT budget.
